Dispenser for dispensing a hygiene product and associated method of operating

ABSTRACT

A dispenser is provided for dispensing a hygiene product. The dispenser includes; a time-of-flight sensor for measuring a position of an object relative to the dispenser; and a controller configured to selectively operate at least one function of the dispenser based on the measured position of the object relative to the dispenser. A method of operating at least one function of a dispenser for dispensing a hygiene product is also provided. The method includes measuring with a time-of-flight sensor a position of an object relative to the dispenser; and using a controller to selectively operate the at least one function of the dispenser based on the measured position of the object relative to the dispenser.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a national phase entry of, and claims priority to,International Application No. PCT/EP2017/073757, filed Sep. 20, 2017.The above-mentioned patent application is incorporated herein byreference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This application relates to dispensers, and more particularly, relatesto dispensers for dispensing a hygiene product and which include asensor.

BACKGROUND

Dispensers are known that operate a dispensing function based on alocation of an object—such as a user or part of the user's body.Dispensers of that type may have a sensor that emits some form of energy(e.g., microwave, infrared), and monitor for the detection of areflection above a predetermined threshold. Reflection of the emittedenergy above the predetermined threshold may be an indication that theobject is in close proximity to the sensor, and upon such detection, thedispenser operates the dispensing function of the dispenser.

Dispensers of the type described above rely to a great extent on thereflectivity of the object, as well as on external characteristics ofthe room in which the dispenser and object are located. In order toavoid inadvertent operation of the dispensing function when there is noobject in the vicinity of the dispenser, the threshold is set to arelatively large value. A drawback of doing so, however, is that theobject has to be very close to the sensor of the dispenser in order forthe dispensing function to be triggered.

It would be desirable, accordingly, to provide dispensers that may bereliably operated when objects are located at relatively large distancesfrom the dispenser. It is also desirable to develop methods of operatingdispensers that address these and other drawbacks discussed above.

SUMMARY

To address the problems with conventional dispenser designs and methods,according to some embodiments of the present invention, a dispenser isprovided for dispensing a hygiene product, including: a time-of-flightsensor for measuring a position of an object relative to the dispenser;and a controller configured to selectively operate at least one functionof the dispenser based on the measured position of the object relativeto the dispenser.

Throughout this disclosure, the term “hygiene product” refers to adispensable product that is used for hygienic purposes. For example,hygiene products include napkins (woven or nonwoven in the form ofsheets or rolls), liquids (soap, disinfectant), and feminine hygienearticles.

Throughout this disclosure, the term “time-of-flight sensor” refers toany sensor that is configured to emit a certain form of energy and tomeasure the time it takes for the emitted energy to be reflected back tothe sensor. The distance between the sensor and an object causing thereflection may be calculated by the sensor based on the measured timeand the predetermined speed of travel of the emitted energy.

For example, the time-of-flight sensor may be any of the sensorsdescribed in U.S. Pat. No. 8,879,048, the entirety of which isincorporated herein by reference.

In one embodiment, the time-of-flight sensor is configured to emitpulses of light and to detect the reflection of the reflected pulses.

In one embodiment, the light is infrared light. The time-of-flightsensor comprises an infrared emitting diode configured to emit thepulses of infrared light and an infrared detector to detect thereflection of the reflected infrared pulses.

Each time-of-flight sensor may have a detection region which is a regionin which the time-of-flight sensor may be able to measure the distanceof an object.

In sensors of the type described above, the emitted energy may be in theform of light or sound, for example. The energy may be emitted in pulsesat a sample rate.

The time-of-flight sensor may be configured to determine the position ofthe object (i.e., causing the reflection) in one dimension, twodimensions or three dimensions. The position may be represented by avector (i.e., a one-dimensional vector, a two-dimensional vector or athree-dimensional vector).

Throughout this disclosure, the term “time-of-flight sensor” is intendedto refer to one, two, or more time-of-flight sensors. In certainembodiments, a combination of two or more time-of-flight sensors may beused to determine the position of the object in two or three dimensions.In other embodiments, one time-of-flight sensor emits energy in multipledirections so as to determine the position of the object in two or threedimensions.

The term “object” in the context of this disclosure includes a user or apart of a user's body, such as a hand.

A function of the dispenser may be any process that the dispenser maycarry out. An operation of the function is the triggering of thisprocess of the dispenser.

As the sensor is a time-of-flight sensor, the sensor is minimallyinfluenced by the reflectivity of the object or the surroundingenvironment. Accordingly, the controller may be set to operate at leastone function of the dispenser when there is a greater distance betweenthe object and the sensor, without risk of false (i.e., unintended)operation of the function.

Hence, with such a configuration, it is possible to provide a dispenserthat may be operated at a larger distance while minimizing the risk offalse operation.

In one embodiment, the time-of-flight sensor is configured to operate ata first sample rate when the measured position is in a first zone and ata second sample rate when the measured position is in a second zone, thefirst sample rate being higher than the second sample rate.

Throughout this disclosure, the term “sample rate” refers to the rate atwhich the time-of-flight sensor emits pulses of energy, whichcorresponds (at least in part) to the rate at which measurements of thereflection time are taken. Accordingly, a higher sample rate may resultin a higher rate of determination of the distance to the object.

The term “zone” defines a spatial region relative to the dispenserdelimited by a range in one of the three dimensions, two of the threedimensions or three of the three dimensions. A point within a zone maybe represented by a vector (i.e., a one-dimensional vector, atwo-dimensional vector or a three-dimensional vector).

As the power consumption of the sensor increases with an increase in thesample rate, the power consumption of the sensor may be decreased incertain zones which are not critical to the operation of the dispenser,without compromising the overall performance of the dispenser.

Hence, with such a configuration, the power consumption of the sensormay be decreased without compromising the overall performance of thedispenser.

In one embodiment, the time-of-flight sensor is configured to switchfrom operating at a second sample rate to operating at a first samplerate when the position of the object is first measured to be in thefirst zone, the first sample rate being higher than the second samplerate. In one embodiment, the time-of-flight sensor is configured toremain operating at the first sample rate until a predeterminedcondition is met. In one embodiment, the predetermined condition is anelapsed amount of time from when the object is first measured to be inthe first zone. In one embodiment, the predetermined condition is ameasurement of the object outside the first zone. In one embodiment, thepredetermined condition is a measurement of the object in the secondzone. In one embodiment, once the predetermined condition is met, thetime-of-flight sensor is configured to switch from operating at thefirst sample rate to operating at the second sample rate.

In another embodiment, the controller is configured to operate a firstfunction of the at least one function when the measured position is in afirst zone, and wherein the controller is configured to operate a secondfunction of the at least one function when the measured position is in asecond zone.

With such a configuration, it is possible to provide a dispenser thatallows for convenient operation of two different functions of thedispenser.

In a further embodiment, the first function is a dispensing function.

In one embodiment, the second function is a power-up function or adisplay function.

A dispensing function of the dispenser dispenses an amount of thehygiene product from the dispenser such that this amount of the hygieneproduct is delivered to the user or is ready for the user to take fromthe dispenser.

In a non-limiting example, the dispensing function may include actuationof a dispensing element of the dispenser such that a predeterminedamount of the hygiene product is delivered to an opening of thedispenser.

A power-up function of the dispenser may turn on an electrical elementof the dispenser. For example, the power-up function may transition anelectrical element from an “off” state to an “on” state. In anotherexample, the power-up function may transition an electrical element froma “sleep” state to an “on” state.

A display function of the dispenser may display information to the userin a specified manner. For example, a display function may displayinformation on a LCD display of the dispenser or turn on certain LEDs ofthe dispenser.

In one embodiment, the first function is a dispensing function and thesecond function is a power-up function.

In another embodiment, the first function is a dispensing function andthe second function is a display function.

In other embodiments, the first function is a dispensing function andthe second function is a communication function, a sound function, or asettings function.

A settings function of the dispenser may alter one or more settings ofthe dispenser.

In one embodiment, the first function is a dispensing function thatdispenses a first amount of the hygiene product and the second functionis a dispensing function that dispenses a second amount of the hygieneproduct.

In another embodiment, the first function is a display function and thesecond function is a dispensing function, a power-up function, acommunication function, a sound function, or a settings function.

In a further embodiment, the first function is a display function thatdisplays a first piece of information and the second function is adisplay function that displays a second piece of information.

In yet another embodiment, the first zone is closer to the dispenserthan the second zone.

In one embodiment, a first zone is closer to the dispenser than a secondzone if the average magnitude of the vectors representing the pointswithin the first zone is less than the average magnitude of the vectorsrepresenting the points within the second zone.

In another embodiment, the entirety of the first zone is closer to thedispenser than the entirety of the second zone.

In yet another embodiment, the entirety of the first zone may be closerto the dispenser than the entirety of the second zone if the magnitudeof each of the vectors representing the points within the first zone isless than the magnitude of each of the vectors representing pointswithin the second zone.

If the object is in the second zone, the rate of determination of thedistance from the dispenser to the object may not be a critical factoras the user may not be immediately looking to interact with a functionof the dispenser due to the relatively large separation between thatobject and the dispenser.

Hence, with such configurations, the power consumption of the sensor maybe decreased without compromising the performance of the dispenser.

As used herein, “R” refers to a distance from a point on a face of thedispenser along a specific direction away from the dispenser. In oneembodiment, the face of the dispenser includes a dispensing opening,and, optionally, wherein the point on the face of the dispenser (i.e.,from which “R” is measured) is in the dispensing opening. In a specificembodiment, the face of the dispenser is configured to face the user.The direction associated with “R” may define an acute angle with theface of the dispenser, with that acute angle being between about 45° andabout 90°. In a specific embodiment, that angle may be about 90° suchthat the direction is substantially perpendicular to the face of thedispenser.

In one embodiment, 0 cm<R<5 cm for the first zone, and, optionally, R≥5cm for the second zone, and, further optionally, 5 cm≤R<500 cm for thesecond zone.

In one embodiment, the first zone extends from R=0 cm to R=5 cm, and,optionally, the second zone extends from R=5 cm, and, furtheroptionally, the second zone extends from R=5 cm to R=500 cm.

In one embodiment, 0 cm<R<10 cm for the first zone, and, optionally,R≥10 cm for the second zone, and, further optionally, 10 cm≤R<500 cm forthe second zone.

In one embodiment, the first zone extends from R=0 cm to R=10 cm, and,optionally, the second zone extends from R=10 cm, and, furtheroptionally, the second zone extends from R=10 cm to R=500 cm.

In one embodiment, α defines an angle between a face of the dispenserand a line connecting a point on the face of the dispenser to alocation. In one embodiment, α defines a horizontal angle.

In another embodiment, α defines a vertical angle. In one embodiment,0°<α<60° for the first zone, and, optionally, α≥60° for the second zone,and, further optionally, 60°≤α<120° for the second zone.

In a further embodiment, the first zone extends from α=0° to α=600, and,optionally, the second zone extends from α=60°, and, further optionally,the second zone extends from α=60° to α=1200°.

In one embodiment, the time-of-flight sensor is configured to operate ata first sample rate when the measured position is in the first zone andat a second sample rate when the measured position is in the secondzone, the first sample rate being higher than the second sample rate.

In another embodiment, the time-of-flight sensor is configured to switchfrom operating at a second sample rate to operating at a first samplerate when the position of the object is first measured to be in thefirst zone, the first sample rate being higher than the second samplerate. In one embodiment, the time-of-flight sensor is configured toremain operating at the first sample rate until a predeterminedcondition is met. In one embodiment, the predetermined condition is anelapsed amount of time from when the object is first measured to be inthe first zone. In one embodiment, the predetermined condition is ameasurement of the object outside the first zone. In one embodiment, thepredetermined condition is a measurement of the object in the secondzone. In one embodiment, once the predetermined condition is met, thetime-of-flight sensor is configured to switch from operating at thefirst sample rate to operating at the second sample rate.

In yet another embodiment, the controller is configured to calculate avelocity of the object relative to the dispenser based on measuredpositions of the object, with the controller being configured to operatea first function of the at least one function if the velocity is withina first predetermined range of velocities.

The velocity of the object may be determined by calculating the changein the position of the object between two determined positions of theobject, and dividing the change in the position by the time elapsedbetween the two determined positions.

The velocity may be represented by a vector (i.e., a one-dimensionalvector, a two-dimensional vector or a three-dimensional vector).

A velocity is within a predetermined range of velocities if allcomponents (one, two, or three) of the velocity fall within respectivepredetermined ranges for those velocity components.

A predetermined range of a velocity component may be defined as negativeinfinity to positive infinity, if such velocity component is notintended to be limited in any way.

Operating a function based on a velocity of an object may be desirablein order to permit intuitive operation of the dispenser.

Hence, with such a configuration, a function of the dispenser may beintuitively operated by the user.

In one embodiment, the first function is a dispensing function thatdispenses a first, predetermined amount of hygiene product.

Without intending to be limiting, “amount” of the hygiene product mayrefer to a number of sheet products, a length of the product, a volumeof the product (particularly liquid product) or a weight of the product.

With such a configuration, a dispensing function of the dispenser may beconveniently operated by the user.

In one embodiment, the controller is configured to operate a secondfunction of the at least one function if the velocity is within a secondpredetermined range of velocities, with the second function being adispensing function that dispenses a second amount of hygiene product.

The first amount and the second amount are different.

With such a configuration, different amounts of the hygiene product maybe dispensed in a convenient manner by the user.

In one embodiment, the magnitude of at least some of the velocities ofthe first predetermined range is smaller than the magnitude of at leastsome of the velocities of the second predetermined range, and the firstamount to be dispensed is smaller than the second amount.

The magnitude of the velocity of the object refers to the speedassociated with movement of the object, irrespective of the direction ofmovement of such object.

In one embodiment, the magnitudes of all of the velocities within thefirst predetermined range are smaller than the magnitudes of all of thevelocities within the second predetermined range, and the first amountto be dispensed is smaller than the second amount.

With such a configuration, different amounts of the hygiene product maybe dispensed in a convenient, intuitive manner by the user.

In one embodiment, the controller is configured to calculate the speedof the object relative to the dispenser based on measured positions ofthe object, with the controller being configured to operate a firstfunction of the at least one function if the speed is within a firstpredetermined range.

In another embodiment, the first function is a dispensing function thatdispenses a first amount of hygiene product.

In a further embodiment, the controller is configured to operate asecond function of the at least one function if the speed is within asecond predetermined range, with the second function being a dispensingfunction that dispenses a second amount of hygiene product.

In one embodiment, the first predetermined range is smaller than thesecond predetermined range, and the first amount is smaller than thesecond amount.

In yet another embodiment, the first function is a display function thatdisplays a first piece of information.

A piece of information may refer to information relating to operation ora characteristic of the dispenser.

In one embodiment, the piece of information is in the form of anindication of whether or not the dispenser is operational and/orassociated with the amount of hygiene product remaining in thedispenser.

In another embodiment, the controller is configured to operate a secondfunction of the at least one function if the measured velocity is withina second predetermined range of velocities, with the second functionbeing a display function that displays a second piece of information.

The first piece of information and the second piece of information aredifferent.

With such a configuration, different pieces of information may bepresented to the user in a convenient manner.

In one embodiment, the controller is configured to operate a function ofthe dispenser only if the velocity of the object is in a prespecifieddirection, for example toward the dispenser.

A velocity is toward the dispenser if the vector associated with thatvelocity is directed toward the dispenser.

With such a configuration, unintended operation of a function of thedispenser may be avoided.

In one embodiment, one of the at least one function of the dispenser isa communication function in which the dispenser communicates with anexternal entity.

With such a configuration, communication of the dispenser may betriggered in a convenient manner.

In one embodiment, the controller is configured to determine a movementof the object relative to the dispenser based on measured positions ofthe object, and configured to operate a function of the at least onefunction of the dispenser if the determined movement is a predeterminedmovement. In one embodiment, the predetermined movement is a sidewaysmovement relative to the dispenser. In one embodiment, the predeterminedmovement is a movement towards or away from the dispenser. In oneembodiment, the predetermined movement is a sideways movement relativeto the dispenser followed by a movement towards or away from thedispenser. In one embodiment, the predetermined movement is a movementtowards or away from the dispenser followed by a sideways movementrelative to the dispenser. In one embodiment, the predetermined movementis a first sideways movement relative to the dispenser followed by asecond sideways movement relative to the dispenser.

In another embodiment, the function of the at least one function of thedispenser is a display function that displays a status of the dispenser,and, optionally, where the status is a product level, battery level orthe like.

In yet another embodiment, the controller is configured to determine amovement of the object relative to the dispenser based on measuredpositions of the object, to operate a first function of the at least onefunction of the dispenser if the determined movement is a firstpredetermined movement, and to operate a second function of the at leastone function of the dispenser if the determined movement is a secondpredetermined movement.

In one embodiment, the first function is a display function thatdisplays a first status of the dispenser, and the second function is adisplay function that displays a second status of the dispenser. Thefirst status and/or the second status may be a product level, batterylevel or the like.

In a further embodiment, the time-of-flight sensor comprises a firsttime-of-flight sensor and a second time-of-flight sensor. The controlleris configured to determine a first movement of the determined movementbased on measured positions of the object measured by the firsttime-of-flight sensor and a second movement of the determined movementbased on measured positions of the object measured by the secondtime-of-flight sensor. Optionally, the first time-of-flight sensor andthe second time-of-flight sensor are spaced apart from each other. Incertain embodiments, the first time-of-flight sensor and the secondtime-of-flight sensor are spaced apart from each other in a horizontalor vertical direction.

In one embodiment, the controller is configured to operate a firstfunction of the at least one function when the measured position of anobject is in a first zone, configured to operate a second function ofthe at least one function when the measured position is in a secondzone, and/or, configured to operate a third function of the at least onefunction when the measured position is in a third zone.

The first function may be a dispensing function that dispenses a firstamount of hygiene product, a display function that displays a firstpiece of information, a power-up function that powers-up a firstelectrical element, a first communication function, a sound functionthat emits a first sound, and/or a first settings function.

The second function may be a dispensing function that dispenses a secondamount of hygiene product, a display function that displays a secondpiece of information, a power-up function that powers-up a secondelectrical element, a second communication function, a sound functionthat emits a second sound, and/or a second settings function.

The third function may be a dispensing function that dispenses a thirdamount of hygiene product, a display function that displays a thirdpiece of information, a power-up function that powers-up a thirdelectrical element, a third communication function, a sound functionthat emits a third sound, and/or a third settings function.

The first zone may be closer to the dispenser relative to the locationof the second zone. Additionally or alternatively, the second zone maybe closer to the dispenser relative to the location of the third zone.

The entirety of the first zone may be closer to the dispenser than isthe entirety of the second zone. Additionally or alternatively, theentirety of the second zone may be closer to the dispenser than is theentirety of the third zone.

In one embodiment, R defines a distance from a point on a face of thedispenser along a direction away from the dispenser. In one embodiment,the face of the dispenser has a dispensing opening and, optionally, thepoint on the face of the dispenser is located in the dispensing opening.In one embodiment, the face of the dispenser may be configured to facethe user. In some embodiments, the direction associated with R maydefine an acute angle with the face of the dispenser, and lie, forexample, between about 45° and about 90°. In one embodiment, the anglebetween the direction associated with R and the face of the dispenser isabout 90° i.e., the direction is perpendicular to the face of thedispenser.

In another embodiment, 0 cm<R<5 cm for the first zone, and, optionally,R≥5 cm for the second zone, and, further optionally, 5 cm≤R<500 cm forthe second zone, and, yet further optionally, 500 cm<R for the thirdzone, and, yet further optionally, 500 cm≤R<1000 cm for the third zone.

In yet another embodiment, the first zone extends from R=0 cm to R=5 cm,and, optionally, the second zone extends from R=5 cm, and, furtheroptionally, the second zone extends from R=5 cm to R=500 cm, and, yetfurther optionally, the third zone extends from R=500 cm, and yetfurther optionally, the third zone extends from R=500 cm to R=1000 cm.

In a further embodiment, 0 cm<R<10 cm for the first zone, and,optionally, R≥10 cm for the second zone, and, further optionally, 10cm≤R<500 cm for the second zone, and, yet further optionally, 500 cm<Rfor the third zone, and, yet further optionally, 500 cm≤R≤1000 cm forthe third zone.

In one embodiment, the first zone extends from R=0 cm to R=10 cm, and,optionally, the second zone extends from R=10 cm, and, furtheroptionally, the second zone extends from R=10 cm to R=500 cm, and, yetfurther optionally, the third zone extends from R=500 cm, and yetfurther optionally, the third zone extends from R=500 cm to R=1000 cm.

In another embodiment, i cm<R<j cm for the first zone, and, optionally,R≥j cm for the second zone, and, further optionally, j cm≤R<k cm for thesecond zone, and, yet further optionally, k cm<R for the third zone,and, yet further optionally, k cm≤R≤1 cm for the third zone.

In a further embodiment, the first zone extends from R=i cm to R=j cm,and, optionally, the second zone extends from R=j cm, and, furtheroptionally, the second zone extends from R=j cm to R=k cm, and, yetfurther optionally, the third zone extends from R=k cm, and yet furtheroptionally, the third zone extends from R=k cm to R=1 cm.

In one embodiment the value of i may be such that 0 cm≤i≤5 cm,specifically such that 0 cm≤i≤2.5 cm, more specifically such that 0cm≤i≤1 cm.

In another embodiment the value of j may be such that 5 cm≤j≤15 cm,specifically such that 5 cm≤j≤10 cm, more specifically such that 6.5cm≤j≤8.5 cm.

In yet another embodiment the value of k may be such that 200 cm≤k≤700cm, specifically such that 300 cm≤k≤600 cm, more specifically such that450 cm≤k≤550 cm.

In one embodiment the value of 1 may be such that 500 cm≤l≤1500 cm,specifically such that 800 cm≤l≤1200 cm, more specifically such that 950cm≤l≤1050 cm.

In another embodiment, i=0 cm, 0.1 cm, 0.2 cm, 0.3 cm, 0.4 cm, 0.5 cm,0.6 cm, 0.7 cm, 0.8 cm, 0.9 cm, 1 cm, 1.5 cm, 2 cm, 2.5 cm, 3 cm, 3.5cm, 4 cm, 4.5 cm, 5 cm, 10 cm, 15 cm, 20 cm, 25 cm, 30 cm, 35 cm, 40 cm,45 cm, 50 cm, 55 cm or 60 cm.

In yet another embodiment, j=0.1 cm, 0.2 cm, 0.3 cm, 0.4 cm, 0.5 cm, 0.6cm, 0.7 cm, 0.8 cm, 0.9 cm, 1 cm, 1.5 cm, 2 cm, 2.5 cm, 3 cm, 3.5 cm, 4cm, 4.5 cm, 5 cm, 10 cm, 15 cm, 20 cm, 25 cm, 30 cm, 35 cm, 40 cm, 45cm, 50 cm, 55 cm, 60 cm, 65 cm, 70 cm, 75 cm, 80 cm, 85 cm, 90 cm, 95 cmor 100 cm.

In a further embodiment, k=5 cm, 10 cm, 15 cm, 20 cm, 25 cm, 30 cm, 35cm, 405 cm, 45 cm, 50 cm, 55 cm, 60 cm, 65 cm, 70 cm, 75 cm, 80 cm, 85cm, 90 cm, 95 cm, 100 cm, 150 cm, 200 cm, 250 cm, 300 cm, 350 cm, 400cm, 450 cm, 500 cm, 550 cm, 600 cm, 650 cm, 700 cm, 750 cm, 800 cm, 850cm, 900 cm, 950 cm or 1000 cm.

In one embodiment, l=100 cm, 150 cm, 200 cm, 250 cm, 300 cm, 350 cm, 400cm, 450 cm, 500 cm, 550 cm, 600 cm, 700 cm, 750 cm, 800 cm, 850 cm, 900cm, 950 cm, 1000 cm, 1050 cm, 1100 cm, 1150 cm, 1200 cm, 1250 cm, 1300cm, 1350 cm, 1400 cm, 1450 cm or 1500 cm.

The symbol a represents an angle defined between a face of the dispenserand a line connecting a point on the face of the dispenser to alocation. In one embodiment, a may be a horizontal angle. In anotherembodiment, a may be a vertical angle.

In one embodiment, 0°<α<60° for the first zone, and, optionally, α≥60°for the second zone, and, further optionally, 60°≤α<120° for the secondzone, and, yet further optionally, 120°≤α for the third zone, and, yetfurther optionally, 120°≤α≤180° for the third zone.

In another embodiment, the first zone extends from α=0° to α=600, and,optionally, the second zone extends from α=60°, and, further optionally,the second zone extends from α=60° to α=1200, and, yet furtheroptionally, the third zone extends from α=120°, and yet furtheroptionally, the third zone extends from α=120° to α=180°.

In a further embodiment, 0°<α<90° for the first zone, and, optionally,α≥90° for the second zone, and, further optionally, 90°≤α<180° for thesecond zone.

In one embodiment, the first zone extends from α=0° to α=90θ, and,optionally, the second zone extends from α=90°, and, further optionally,the second zone extends from α=90° to α=180°.

In another embodiment, a°<α<b° for the first zone, and, optionally, α≥b°for the second zone, and, further optionally, b°≤α<c° for the secondzone, and, yet further optionally, c°≤α for the third zone, and, yetfurther optionally, c°≤α≤d° for the third zone.

In yet another embodiment, the first zone extends from α=a° to α=b°,and, optionally, the second zone extends from α=b°, and, furtheroptionally, the second zone extends from α=b° to α=c°, and, yet furtheroptionally, the third zone extends from α=c°, and yet furtheroptionally, the third zone extends from α=c° to α=d°.

In a further embodiment, 0°≤α≤5°, specifically 0°≤α≤2.5°, and morespecifically 0°≤α≤1°.

In one embodiment, 40°≤b≤80°, specifically 50°≤b≤70°, and morespecifically 55°≤b≤65°. In another embodiment, 70°≤b≤110°, specifically80°≤b≤100°, and more specifically 85°≤b≤95°.

In another embodiment, 100°≤c≤140°, specifically 11°≤c≤130°, and morespecifically 115°≤c≤125°. In another embodiment, 160°≤b≤200°,specifically 170°≤b≤190°, and more specifically 175°≤b≤185°.

In yet another embodiment, 160°≤d≤200°, specifically 170°≤d≤190°, andmore specifically 175°≤d≤185°.

In a further embodiment, a=0°, 5°, 10°, 15°, 20°, 25°, 30°, 35°, 40°,45°, 50°, 55°, 60°, 65°, 70°, 75°, 80°, 85°, 90°, 95°, 100°, 105°, 110°,115°, 120°, 125°, 130°, 135°, 140°, 145°, 150°, 155°, 160°, 165°, 170°,175° or 180°.

In one embodiment, b=0°, 5°, 10°, 15°, 20°, 25°, 30°, 35°, 40°, 45°,50°, 55°, 60°, 65°, 70°, 75°, 80°, 85°, 90°, 95°, 100°, 105°, 110°,115°, 120°, 125°, 130°, 135°, 140°, 145°, 150°, 155°, 160°, 165°, 170°,175° or 180°.

In another embodiment, c=0°, 5°, 10°, 15°, 20°, 25°, 30°, 35°, 40°, 45°,50°, 55°, 60°, 65°, 70°, 75°, 80°, 85°, 90°, 95°, 100°, 105°, 110°,115°, 120°, 125°, 130°, 135°, 140°, 145°, 150°, 155°, 160°, 165°, 170°,175° or 180°.

In yet another embodiment, d=0°, 5°, 10°, 15°, 20°, 25°, 30°, 35°, 40°,45°, 50°, 55θ, 60°, 65θ, 70°, 75°, 80°, 85θ, 90°, 95°, 100°, 105θ, 110°,115θ, 120°, 125°, 130°, 135θ, 140°, 145θ, 150°, 155θ, 160°, 165θ, 170°,175° or 180°.

In a further embodiment, 90°−α₁/2<α<90°+α₁/2 for the first zone. In oneembodiment, the first zone extends from α=90°−α₁/2 to α=90°+α₁/2.

In one embodiment, α₁=10°, 20°, 30°, 40°, 50°, 60°, 70°, 80°, 90°, 100°,110°, 120°, 130°, 140°, 150°, 160°, 170° or 180°.

In another embodiment, 10°≤α₁≤50°, specifically 20°≤α₁≤40°, and morespecifically 25°≤α₁≤35°.

In yet another embodiment, 90°−α₂/2≤α≤90°−α₁/2 and 90°+α₁/2≤α≤90°+α₂/2,for the second zone. In one embodiment, the second zone extends fromα=90°−α₂/2 to α=90°−α₁/2, and from α=90°+α₁/2 to α=90°+α₂/2.

In a further embodiment, α₂=10°, 20°, 30°, 40°, 50°, 60°, 70°, 80°, 90°,100°, 110°, 120°, 130°, 140°, 150°, 160°, 170° or 180°.

In one embodiment, 30°≤α₂≤110°, specifically 50°≤α₁≤90°, and morespecifically 60°≤α₁≤80°.

In another embodiment, 90°−α₃/2≤α≤90°−α₂/2 and 90°+α₂/2≤α≤90°+α₃/2, forthe third zone. In one embodiment, the third zone extends fromα=90°−α₃/2 to α=90°−α₂/2, and from α=90°+α₂/2 to α=90°+α₃/2.

In yet another embodiment, α₃=10°, 20°, 30°, 40°, 50°, 60°, 70°, 80°,90°, 100°, 110°, 120°, 130°, 140°, 150°, 160°, 170° or 180°.

In a further embodiment, 50°≤₃≤130°, specifically 70°≤₃≤120°, and morespecifically 80°≤₃≤110°.

In one embodiment, the time-of-flight sensor is configured to operate ata first sample rate when the measured position is in the first zone, ata second sample rate when the measured position is in the second zone,and at a third sample rate when the measured position is in the thirdzone, the first sample rate being higher than the second sample rate,the second sample rate being higher than the third sample rate.

In another embodiment, the time-of-flight sensor is configured to switchfrom operating at a second sample rate to operating at a first samplerate when the position of the object is first measured to be in thefirst zone, the first sample rate being higher than the second samplerate. In one embodiment, the time-of-flight sensor is configured toremain operating at the first sample rate until a predeterminedcondition is met. In one embodiment, the predetermined condition is anelapsed amount of time from when the object is first measured to be inthe first zone. In one embodiment, the predetermined condition is ameasurement of the object outside the first zone. In one embodiment, thepredetermined condition is a measurement of the object in the secondzone. In one embodiment, once the predetermined condition is met, thetime-of-flight sensor is configured to switch from operating at thefirst sample rate to operating at the second sample rate.

Additionally or alternatively, the time-of-flight sensor is configuredto switch from operating at a third sample rate to operating at a secondsample rate when the position of the object is first measured to be inthe second zone, the second sample rate being higher than the thirdsample rate. In one embodiment, the time-of-flight sensor is configuredto remain operating at the second sample rate until a predeterminedcondition is met. In one embodiment, the predetermined condition is anelapsed amount of time from when the object is first measured to be inthe second zone. In one embodiment, the predetermined condition is ameasurement of the object outside the second zone. In one embodiment,the predetermined condition is a measurement of the object in the thirdzone, and, optionally, once the predetermined condition is met, thetime-of-flight sensor is configured to switch from operating at thesecond sample rate to operating at the third sample rate. In oneembodiment, the predetermined condition is a measurement of the objectin the first zone, and, optionally, once the predetermined condition ismet, the time-of-flight sensor is configured to switch from operating atthe second sample rate to operating at the first sample rate.

A location relative to the dispenser may be defined by a vector (r, θ,φ) in a spherical coordinate system, where the origin is located on aface of the dispenser, where θ is an acute angle between the locationand an axis that extends perpendicularly away from the face and where φis an acute angle between the location and an axis that extends in theplane of the face.

The angle φ may be an acute angle between the location and an axis thatextends in the plane of the face and is aligned with a vertical axis ofthe dispenser.

In one embodiment, 0 cm<r<5 cm for the first zone, and, optionally, r≥5cm for the second zone, and, further optionally, 5 cm≤r<500 cm for thesecond zone, and, yet further optionally, 500 cm≤r for the third zone,and, yet further optionally, 500 cm≤r<1000 cm for the third zone.

In another embodiment, the first zone extends from r=0 cm to r=5 cm,and, optionally, the second zone extends from r=5 cm, and, furtheroptionally, the second zone extends from r=5 cm to r=500 cm, and, yetfurther optionally, the third zone extends from r=500 cm, and yetfurther optionally, the third zone extends from r=500 cm to r=1000 cm.

In a further embodiment, 0 cm<r<10 cm for the first zone, and,optionally, r≥10 cm for the second zone, and, further optionally, 10cm≤r<500 cm for the second zone, and, yet further optionally, 500 cm≤rfor the third zone, and, yet further optionally, 500 cm≤r≤1000 cm forthe third zone.

In yet another embodiment, the first zone extends from r=0 cm to r=10cm, and, optionally, the second zone extends from r=10 cm, and, furtheroptionally, the second zone extends from r=10 cm to r=500 cm, and, yetfurther optionally, the third zone extends from r=500 cm, and yetfurther optionally, the third zone extends from r=500 cm to r=1000 cm.

In one embodiment, 0°<φ<60° for the first zone, and, optionally, φ≥60°for the second zone, and, further optionally, 60°≤φ<120° for the secondzone, and, yet further optionally, 120°≤φ for the third zone, and, yetfurther optionally, 120°≤φ≤180° for the third zone.

In another embodiment, the first zone extends from φ=0° to φ=600, and,optionally, the second zone extends from φ=60°, and, further optionally,the second zone extends from φ=60° to φ=120°, and, yet furtheroptionally, the third zone extends from φ=120°, and yet furtheroptionally, the third zone extends from φ=180° to φ=180°.

In yet another embodiment, 0° cm<φ<90° for the first zone, and,optionally, φ≥90° for the second zone, and, further optionally,90°≤φ<180° for the second zone.

In a further embodiment, the first zone extends from φ=0° to φ=90°, and,optionally, the second zone extends from φ=90°, and, further optionally,the second zone extends from φ=90° to φ=180°.

In one embodiment, −10°<θ<10° for the first zone, and, optionally, θ≥10°and θ≤−10° for the second zone, and, further optionally, 10°≤θ<20° and−20°≤θ<−10° for the second zone, and, yet further optionally, 20°≤θ and−20°≥θ for the third zone, and, yet further optionally, 20°≤θ≤30° and−30°≤θ≤−20° for the third zone.

In another embodiment, the first zone extends from θ=−10° to θ=100, and,optionally, the second zone extends from θ=10° and from θ=−10°, and,further optionally, the second zone extends from θ=10° to θ=200 and fromθ=−20° to θ=−10°, and, yet further optionally, the third zone extendsfrom θ=20° and from θ=−20°, and yet further optionally, the third zoneextends from θ=20° to θ=300 and from θ=−30° to θ=−20°.

In a further embodiment, (p defines a horizontal angle.

In yet another embodiment, (p defines a vertical angle.

In one embodiment, the time-of-flight sensor is configured to operate ata first sample rate when the measured position is in the first zone, ata second sample rate when the measured position is in the second zone,and at a third sample rate when the measured position is in the thirdzone, the first sample rate being higher than the second sample rate,the second sample rate being higher than the third sample rate.

In another embodiment, the time-of-flight sensor is configured to switchfrom operating at a second sample rate to operating at a first samplerate when the position of the object is first measured to be in thefirst zone, the first sample rate being higher than the second samplerate. In one embodiment, the time-of-flight sensor is configured toremain operating at the first sample rate until a predeterminedcondition is met. In one embodiment, the predetermined condition is anelapsed amount of time from when the object is first measured to be inthe first zone. In one embodiment, the predetermined condition is ameasurement of the object outside the first zone. In one embodiment, thepredetermined condition is a measurement of the object in the secondzone. In one embodiment, once the predetermined condition is met, thetime-of-flight sensor is configured to switch from operating at thefirst sample rate to operating at the second sample rate.

Additionally or alternatively, the time-of-flight sensor is configuredto switch from operating at a third sample rate to operating at a secondsample rate when the position of the object is first measured to be inthe second zone, the second sample rate being higher than the thirdsample rate. In one embodiment, the time-of-flight sensor is configuredto remain operating at the second sample rate until a predeterminedcondition is met. In one embodiment, the predetermined condition is anelapsed amount of time from when the object is first measured to be inthe second zone. In one embodiment, the predetermined condition is ameasurement of the object outside the second zone. In one embodiment,the predetermined condition is a measurement of the object in the thirdzone, and, optionally, once the predetermined condition is met, thetime-of-flight sensor is configured to switch from operating at thesecond sample rate to operating at the third sample rate. In oneembodiment, the predetermined condition is a measurement of the objectin the first zone, and, optionally, once the predetermined condition ismet, the time-of-flight sensor is configured to switch from operating atthe second sample rate to operating at the first sample rate.

Throughout this disclosure, a zone extending from A to B is a zone that:extends from A or extends from a value infinitesimally larger than A;and/or extends to B or extends to a value infinitesimally smaller thanB. In other words, a zone extending from A to B is a zone that: extendsup to and including A or extends up to and including a valueinfinitesimally larger than A; and/or extends up to and including B orextends up to and including a value infinitesimally smaller than B.

According to further embodiments of the present invention, a method isprovided of operating at least one function of a dispenser fordispensing a hygiene product. The method includes measuring with atime-of-flight sensor a position of an object relative to the dispenser,and using a controller to selectively operate the at least one functionof the dispenser based on the measured position of the object relativeto the dispenser.

Further features and effects of the dispenser and the method ofoperating at least one function of a dispenser according to the presentdisclosure will be evident from the following description of certainembodiments. In the description of these embodiments, reference is madeto the accompanying drawings. The embodiments described may be combinedin any sub-combination or combination without departing from the scopeof this invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a better understanding of the objectives and features of the presentinvention and to show how the same may be carried out, reference willnow be made, by way of example only, to the accompanying drawings. Theaccompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a partof this specification, illustrate one or more embodiments of theinvention and, together with the general description given above and thedetailed description given below, explain the one or more embodiments ofthe invention.

FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a dispenser for dispensing a sheethygiene product in accordance with one embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of a dispenser for dispensing a liquidhygiene product in accordance with another embodiment.

FIG. 3a is a top plan view of a dispenser for dispensing a hygieneproduct in accordance with yet another embodiment.

FIG. 3b is a side view of the dispenser of FIG. 3 a.

FIG. 4a is a top plan view of a dispenser for dispensing a hygieneproduct in accordance with another embodiment.

FIG. 4b is a side view of the dispenser of FIG. 4 a.

FIG. 5 is a top plan view of a dispenser for dispensing a hygieneproduct in accordance with yet another embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a side view of a dispenser for dispensing a hygiene product inaccordance with a further embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a hygiene product dispenser 10configured to dispense a hygiene product in the form of sheets (notshown).

The dispenser 10 has a housing 11 defining an interior volume forreceiving a stack of sheet products therein (not shown).

The housing 11 has a front face 11 a that is configured to face towardthe user of sheet product dispenser 10, a top face 11 b, a bottom face(not shown), two side faces 11 c (only one shown in FIG. 1), and a rearface (not shown in FIG. 1).

The front face 11 a of the housing 11 defines a dispensing opening 12for dispensing one or more of the sheet products therethrough. Thedispenser 10 further includes a dispensing mechanism (not shown) that isactuatable to dispense one or more of the sheet products through thedispensing opening 12.

The dispenser 10 also includes a display 13. The display 13 may be anLCD display or LED panel on which information id displayed. Thedisplayed information may, for example, relate to operation of thedispenser 10, such as an indication of whether or not the dispenser 10is operational and/or the amount of sheet product remaining in thedispenser 10.

The dispenser 10 further comprises a time-of-flight sensor TF(schematically shown in FIG. 1). The time-of-flight sensor in the sampledispenser of FIG. 1 is located behind the dispensing opening 12,although other locations are similarly contemplated.

The time-of-flight sensor TF measures a position of an object 100relative to the dispenser 10. In the illustrated embodiment, thetime-of-flight sensor TF may determine the position of an object 100 inthree dimensions.

As shown in FIG. 1, the position of the object 100 relative to thedispenser 10 may be represented by a three-component vector (r, θ, φ) ina spherical coordinate system. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, thespherical coordinate system may have its origin located at thedispensing opening 12 on the front face 11 a of the dispenser 10.

As also shown in FIG. 1, a location relative to the dispenser may bedefined by a vector (x, y, z) in a Cartesian coordinate system with theorigin disposed on the front face 11 a of the dispenser 10, where thepositive x axis extends perpendicularly away from the front face 11 a ofthe dispenser 10. As shown, the y axis aligns with a horizontal axis ofthe dispenser and the z axis aligns with a vertical axis of thedispenser 10.

In the spherical coordinate system, and referring particularly to FIG.1, 0 is an acute angle defined on the X-Y plane, between a lineprojecting from the origin to the position of the object 100 and an axisthat extends perpendicularly away from the front face 11 a i.e., the xaxis. The symbol φ represents an acute angle defined on the X-Z plane,between a hypothetical line projecting from the origin to the positionof the object 100 and an axis that extends in the plane of the frontface 11 a and which is aligned with the vertical axis of the dispenser10 i.e., the z axis.

The dispenser 10 has a controller CT (schematically shown), which isconfigured to selectively operate at least one function of the dispenser10 based on the measured position of the object 100 relative to thedispenser 10. Specifically, the controller CT may be configured tooperate the at least one function when the measured position of theobject 100 meets certain predetermined criteria. To that end, thecontroller CT is communicatively coupled to the time-of-flight sensor TFsuch that the time-of-flight sensor TF can provide data relating to themeasured position of the object 100 to the controller CT. Examples ofvarious predetermined criteria are described below in connection withFIGS. 3a to 6.

The functions of the dispenser 10 may be any one or combination of thefunctions described herein.

For example, a dispensing function of the dispenser 10 may be todispense an amount (e.g., a number of sheets) of the hygiene productfrom the dispenser 10 such that this amount of the hygiene product isdelivered to the user or is ready for the user to retrieve from thedispenser 10. In this embodiment, the dispensing function of dispenser10 is such that the dispensing mechanism of the dispenser 10 is actuatedto thereby cause a predetermined amount of the sheet product to bedelivered through the opening 12 of the dispenser 10.

As another example, the dispenser 10 may have a display function. Thedisplay function of the dispenser 10 includes displaying information tothe user on the display 13.

In the example embodiment of FIG. 1, the dispenser 10 further includes abattery (not shown) for supplying power to the various elements of thedispenser 10, such as the time-of-flight sensor, controller, dispensingmechanism, and/or display 13.

Reference is now made to FIG. 2, which is a perspective view of ahygiene product dispenser 20 configured for dispensing a liquid hygieneproduct (not shown).

The dispenser 20 includes features similar to those in dispenser 10(FIG. 1). For ease of understanding, those features are given similarreference signs and numerals.

Dispenser 20 has a housing 21 that defines an interior volume forreceiving a liquid therein (not shown).

The housing 21 has a front face 21 a that is configured to face towardthe user of the dispenser 20, a top face 21 b, a bottom face (notshown), two side faces 21 c (only one shown in FIG. 2), and a rear face(not shown in FIG. 2).

The housing 21 defines a dispensing opening 22 for dispensing an amountof the liquid therethrough. The dispenser 20 further includes adispensing mechanism (not shown) that is actuatable to thereby dispensethe liquid through the dispensing opening 22.

The dispenser 20 also includes a display 23. The display 23 may be anLCD display or LED panel on which information is displayed related tooperation of the dispenser 20. The displayed information may for examplebe an indication as to whether or not the dispenser 20 is operationaland/or the amount of liquid remaining in the dispenser 20.

The dispenser 20 further includes a time-of-flight sensor TF(schematically shown in FIG. 2) similar to that described in relation tothe dispenser 10 (FIG. 1). The time-of-flight sensor TF in dispenser 20is located behind the dispensing opening 22, although other locationsare similarly contemplated.

As shown in FIG. 2, in a similar manner to dispenser 10, the position ofthe object 100 relative to the dispenser 20 may be represented by athree-component vector (r, θ, φ) in a spherical coordinate system. Forexample, as shown in FIG. 2, the spherical coordinate system may haveits origin located at the dispensing opening 22 on the front face 21 aof the dispenser 20.

In the spherical coordinate system, and referring to FIG. 2, θ is anacute angle—defined on the X-Y plane—between a line projecting from theorigin to the position of the object 100 and an axis x that extendsperpendicularly away from the front face 21 a. The symbol φ refers to anacute angle defined—on the X-Z plane—between a line projecting from theorigin to the position of the object 100 and an axis z that extends inthe plane of the front face 11 a and that is aligned with the verticalaxis of the dispenser 20.

The dispenser 20 further includes a controller CT (schematically shownin FIG. 2) similar to that described in relation to the dispenser 10 ofFIG. 1. Again, examples of the various predetermined criteria aredescribed below in relation to FIGS. 3a to 6.

The functions of the dispenser 20 may be any one or combination of thefunctions described herein.

For example, a dispensing function of the liquid product dispenser 20may include dispensing an amount (e.g., a predetermined weight orvolume) of the liquid hygiene product from the dispenser 20, with thatamount being delivered to the user or making that amount ready forretrieval by the user from the dispenser. In this example embodiment,the dispensing function includes actuation of the dispensing mechanismof the dispenser 10 such that a predetermined amount of the liquidproduct is delivered through the opening 22 of the dispenser 20.

As another example, the dispenser 20 also has a display function similarto that described in relation to the dispenser 10 of FIG. 1.

In the illustrated embodiment, the dispenser 20 also includes a battery(not shown) for supplying power to the various elements of the dispenser20, such as the time-of-flight sensor, controller, dispensing mechanism,and/or display 23.

Various configurations of the controller and the time-of-flight sensorare contemplated. For ease of explanation and understanding, the genericdispensers shown in FIGS. 3a to 6 may refer to a sheet product dispensersuch as dispenser 10 (FIG. 1) or to a liquid product dispenser such asdispenser 20 (FIG. 2), and each may include all of the elementsdescribed above in connection to the embodiments of FIGS. 1 and 2.Similar reference numerals denote similar elements.

With reference to FIGS. 3a and 3b , a dispenser 30 is configured fordispensing a hygiene product.

FIG. 3a shows a front face 31 a, a top face 31 b, and two side faces 31c of the housing 31. FIG. 3b shows the front face 31 a, the top face 31b, and one of the two side faces 31 c of a housing 31 of dispenser 30.FIG. 3b also shows a dispensing opening 32 of the dispenser 30.

In the illustrated embodiment, a controller of dispenser 30 isconfigured to operate a first function of the at least one function ofthe dispenser 30 when the measured position of an object 100 is in afirst zone Z1. The controller is also configured to operate a second(different) function of the at least one function of the dispenser 30when the measured position of the object 100 is in a second zone Z2. Thefunctions operated in the first zone Z1 and the second zone Z2 may beany one or combination of the functions described herein.

As can be seen in FIGS. 3a and 3b , the first zone Z1 is closer to thedispenser than is the second zone Z2.

In this embodiment, the first zone Z1 is a three-dimensional regionhaving the shape of a spherical cone of radius r₁ centered at an originO and having an axis extending perpendicularly away from the front face31 a (i.e., coincident with the x axis).

The second zone Z2 is a three-dimensional region having the shapedefined by a spherical cone of radius r₂ centered at the origin O andhaving an axis extending perpendicularly away from the front face 31 aand excluding the volume occupied by the spherical cone of radius r₁centered at the origin O and having an axis extending perpendicularlyaway from the front face 31 a. Accordingly, the second zone Z2 is athree-dimensional region defining a circular shell having a thickness ofr₂−r₁, the axis of the circular shell being coincident with the axis ofthe spherical cone of the first zone Z1.

Accordingly, in the spherical coordinate system shown in FIGS. 1 and 2(and partially shown in FIGS. 3a and 3b ), the first zone Z1 extendsfrom r=0 to r=r₁, from θ=−θ₁ to θ=+θ₁, and from φ=φ₁ to φ=φ_(1′). Forexample, r₁=5 cm or 10 cm, θ₁=45°, φ₁=45° and φ_(1′)=135°.

The second zone Z2 extends from r=r₁ to r=r₂, from θ=−θ₂ to θ=+θ₂, andfrom φ=φ₂ to φ=φ_(2′). For example, r₁=5 cm or 10 cm, r₂=100 cm, θ₂=450,φ₂=45° and φ_(2′)=135°.

Turning now to FIGS. 4a and 4b . those figures show a dispenser 40 fordispensing a hygiene product.

FIG. 4a shows a front face 41 a, a top face 41 b, and two side faces 41c of a housing 41 of dispenser 40. FIG. 4b shows the front face 41 a,the top face 41 b, and one of the two side faces 41 c of the housing 41.FIG. 4b also shows a dispensing opening 42 of the dispenser 40.

In this example embodiment, a controller of dispenser 40 is configuredto operate a first function of the at least one function of thedispenser 40 when the measured position of an object 100 is in a firstzone Z1. The controller is also configured to operate a second(different) function of the at least one function of the dispenser 40when the measured position of the object 100 is in a second zone Z2. Thecontroller is further configured to operate a third (different) functionof the at least one function of the dispenser 40 when the measuredposition of the object 100 is in a third zone Z3. The functions operatedin the first zone Z1, the second zone Z2, and the third zone Z3 may beany one or combination of the functions described herein.

As can be seen in FIGS. 4a and 4b , the first zone Z1 is closer to thedispenser 40 than is the second zone Z2 and the second zone Z2 is closerto the dispenser 40 than is the third zone Z3.

In this illustrated embodiment, the first zone Z1 is a three-dimensionalregion having the shape of a spherical cone of radius r₁ centered at anorigin O and having an axis extending perpendicularly away from thefront face 41 a.

The second zone Z2 is a three-dimensional region having the shapedefined by a spherical cone of radius r₂ centered at the origin O andhaving an axis extending perpendicularly away from the front face 41 aand excluding the volume occupied by a spherical cone of radius r₁centered at the origin O and having an axis extending perpendicularlyaway from the front face 41 a. Accordingly, the second zone Z2 is athree-dimensional region having the shape of a circular shell having athickness of r₂-r₁, the axis of the circular shell being coincident withthe axis of the spherical cone of the first zone Z1.

The third zone Z3 is a three-dimensional region having the shape definedby a spherical cone of radius r₃ centered at the origin O and having anaxis extending perpendicularly away from the front face 41 a andexcluding the volume occupied by a spherical cone of radius r₂ centeredat the origin O and having an axis extending perpendicularly away fromthe front face 41 a. Accordingly, the third zone Z3 is athree-dimensional region having the shape of a circular shell having athickness of r₃-r₂, the axis of the circular shell being coincident withthe axis of the spherical cone of the first zone Z1.

Accordingly, in the spherical coordinate system shown in FIGS. 1 and 2(and partially shown in FIGS. 4a and 4b ), the first zone Z1 extendsfrom r=0 to r=r₁, from θ=−θ₁ to θ=+θ₁, and from φ=φ₁ to φ=φ_(1′). Forexample, r₁=5 cm or 10 cm, θ₁=45°, φ₁=45° and φ_(1′)=135°.

The second zone Z2 extends from r=r₁ to r=r₂, from θ=−θ₂ to θ=+θ₂, andfrom φ=φ₂ to φ=φ_(2′). For example, r₁=5 cm or 10 cm, r₂=50 cm, θ₂=45°,φ₂=45° and φ_(2′)=135°.

The third zone Z3 extends from r=r₂ to r=r₃, from θ=−θ₃ to θ=+θ₃, andfrom φ=φ₃ to φ=φ_(3′). For example, r₂=50 cm, r₃=100 cm, θ₃=45°, φ₃=45°and φ₃′=135°.

Reference is now made to FIG. 5, which shows a dispenser 50 fordispensing a hygiene product.

FIG. 5 shows a front face 51 a, a top face 51 b, and two side faces 51 cof a housing 51 of dispenser 50.

In this example embodiment, a controller of dispenser 50 is configuredto operate a first function of the at least one function of thedispenser 50 when the measured position of an object 100 is in a firstzone Z1. The controller is also configured to operate a second functionof the at least one function of the dispenser 50 when the measuredposition of the object 100 is in a second zone Z2. The functionsoperated in the first zone Z and the second zone Z2 may be any one orcombination of the functions described herein.

In this embodiment, the first zone Z is a three-dimensional regionhaving the shape of a half of a spherical cone of radius r₁ centered atan origin O and having an axis extending perpendicularly away from thefront face 51 a, and which lies on the positive y side of the xz-plane.

The second zone Z2 is a three-dimensional region having the shape of ahalf of a spherical cone of radius r₁ centered at the origin O andhaving an axis extending perpendicularly away from the front face 51 a,and which lies on the negative y side of the xz-plane.

In this embodiment, there is no overlap between the first zone Z1 andthe second zone Z2 and the combined three dimensional regions of thefirst zone Z1 and the second zone Z2 form a spherical cone of radius r₁centered at the origin O and having an axis extending perpendicularlyaway from the front face 51 a.

Accordingly, in the spherical coordinate system shown in FIGS. 1 and 2(and partially shown in FIG. 5), the first zone Z extends from r=0 tor=r₁, from θ=0° to θ=+θ₁, and from φ=φ₁ to φ=φ_(1′). For example, r₁=100cm, θ₁=45°, φ₁=45° and φ_(1′)=135°.

The second zone Z2 extends from r=0 to r=r₁, from θ=0θ to θ=−−θ₁, andfrom φ=φ₁ to φ=φ_(1′). For example, r₁=100 cm, θ₁=45°, φ₁=450 andφ_(1′)=135°.

The time-of-flight sensor (not shown) of the dispenser 50 may comprisetwo time-of-flight sensors spaced apart from each other in a horizontaldirection (i.e. along a horizontal (y) axis of the dispenser 50).

The detection regions of the two time-of-flight sensors may at leastpartially overlap.

The time-of-flight sensor may be configured to operate at a first samplerate when the measured position is in the first zone Z1, and at a secondsample rate when the measured position is in the second zone Z2, thefirst sample rate being higher than the second sample rate.

In another embodiment, the time-of-flight sensor may be configured toswitch from operating at a second sample rate to operating at a firstsample rate when the position of the object 100 is first measured to bein the first zone Z1, the first sample rate being higher than the secondsample rate. In one embodiment, the time-of-flight sensor is configuredto remain operating at the first sample rate until a predeterminedcondition is met. In one embodiment, the predetermined condition is anelapsed amount of time from when the object 100 is first measured to bein the first zone Z1. In one embodiment, the predetermined condition isa measurement of the object 100 outside the first zone Z1. In oneembodiment, the predetermined condition is a measurement of the object100 in the second zone Z2. In one embodiment, once the predeterminedcondition is met, the time-of-flight sensor is configured to switch fromoperating at the first sample rate to operating at the second samplerate.

Referring now to FIG. 6, that figure shows a dispenser 60 for dispensinga hygiene product and having.

a front face 61 a, a top face 61 b, and two side faces 61 c of a housing61 of dispenser 60. FIG. 6 also shows a dispensing opening 62 of thedispenser 60.

In this example embodiment, a controller of dispenser 60 is configuredto operate a first function of the at least one function of thedispenser 60 when the measured position of an object 100 is in a firstzone Z1. The controller is also configured to operate a second functionof the at least one function of the dispenser 60 when the measuredposition of the object 100 is in a second zone Z2. The functionsoperated in the first zone Z1 and the second zone Z2 may be any one orcombination of the functions described herein.

In this embodiment, the first zone Z1 is a three-dimensional regionhaving the shape of a half of a spherical cone of radius r₁ centered atthe origin O and having an axis extending perpendicularly away from thefront face 61 a, and which lies on the negative z side of the xy-plane.

The second zone Z2 is a three-dimensional region having the shape of ahalf of a spherical cone of radius r₁ centered at the origin O andhaving an axis extending perpendicularly away from the front face 61 a,and which lies on the positive z side of the xy-plane.

In this embodiment, there is no overlap between the first zone Z1 andthe second zone Z2 and the combined three dimensional regions of thefirst zone Z1 and the second zone Z2 form a spherical cone of radius r₁centered at the origin O and having an axis extending perpendicularlyaway from the front face 61 a.

Accordingly, in the spherical coordinate system shown in FIGS. 1 and 2(and partially shown in FIG. 6), the first zone Z1 extends from r=0 tor=r₁, from θ=−θ₁ to θ=+θ₁, and from φ=φ₁ to φ=φ_(1′). For example,r₁=100 cm, θ₁=45°, φ₁=45° and φ_(1′)=90°.

The second zone Z2 extends from r=0 to r=r₁, from θ=−θ₁ to θ=+θ₁, andfrom φ=φ₂ to φ=φ_(2′). For example, r₁=100 cm, θ₁=45°, φ₂=90° andφ_(2′)=135θ°.

The time-of-flight sensor (not shown) of the dispenser 60 may comprisetwo time-of-flight sensors spaced apart from each other in a verticaldirection (i.e. along a vertical (z) axis of the dispenser 60).

The detection regions of the two time-of-flight sensors may at leastpartially overlap.

The time-of-flight sensor may be configured to operate at a first samplerate when the measured position is in the first zone Z1, and at a secondsample rate when the measured position is in the second zone Z2, thefirst sample rate being higher than the second sample rate.

In another embodiment, the time-of-flight sensor may be configured toswitch from operating at a second sample rate to operating at a firstsample rate when the position of the object 100 is first measured to bein the first zone Z1, the first sample rate being higher than the secondsample rate. In one embodiment, the time-of-flight sensor is configuredto remain operating at the first sample rate until a predeterminedcondition is met. In one embodiment, the predetermined condition is anelapsed amount of time from when the object 100 is first measured to bein the first zone Z1. In one embodiment, the predetermined condition isa measurement of the object 100 outside the first zone Z1. In oneembodiment, the predetermined condition is a measurement of the object100 in the second zone Z2. In one embodiment, once the predeterminedcondition is met, the time-of-flight sensor is configured to switch fromoperating at the first sample rate to operating at the second samplerate.

The dispensers shown in FIGS. 3a to 6 may be, for example and withoutlimitation, in the form of a dispenser of sheet products such asdispenser 10 of FIG. 1, or a dispenser of liquid product, such asdispenser 20 of FIG. 2. The dispenser described with reference to thosefigures may be provided in a suitable location for use by a userrequiring a hygiene product.

As an object 100, for example a hand of a user, moves toward adispensing opening of a dispenser, the time-of-flight sensor measuresthe position of the user's hand relative to the dispenser. Thecontroller selectively operates at least one function of the dispenserbased on the measured position of the user's hand relative to thedispenser.

In particular, as the user's hand moves toward the dispenser, thecontroller may be configured to selectively operate a second function ofthe at least one function of the dispenser when the measured position ofthe user's hand is in a second zone Z2. This second function may be adisplay function, for example.

As the user's hand continues to move toward the dispenser, the user'shand may enter a first zone Z1 which is closer to the dispenser than isthe second zone Z2. The controller may be configured to selectivelyoperate a first function of the at least one function of the dispenserwhen the measured position of the user's hand is in the first zone Z1.The first function may be a dispensing function, for example.

The dispensing function of the dispenser actuates the dispensingmechanism of the dispenser such that a predetermined amount of thehygiene product is delivered to the dispensing opening of the dispenserready for the user to retrieve from the dispenser. The extent of thefirst zone Z1 may be such that the user's hand is in close proximity tothe dispensing opening when the dispensing function is operated by thecontroller.

The user may then manually retrieve or receive the hygiene product fromthe dispensing opening of the dispenser.

Although the above explanation is considered to fully clarify how thepresent invention may be put into effect by those skilled in the art, itis to be regarded as purely illustrative.

In particular, there are a number of variations which are possible, asmay be appreciated by those skilled in the art.

For example, in the embodiments shown in FIGS. 3a to 6, the controlleris configured to operate a first function of the at least one functionwhen the measured position of the object 100 is in a first zone Z1, andthe controller is configured to operate a second function of the atleast one function when the measured position of the object 100 is in asecond zone Z2 and, optionally, the controller is configured to operatea third function of the at least one function when the measured positionof the object 100 is in a third zone Z3.

In alternative embodiments, the controller may not activate thefunctions based on the position of the object being within a specifiedzone. Specifically, the controller may additionally or alternatively beconfigured to calculate a velocity of the object relative to thedispenser based on measured positions of the object, and to operate afirst function of the at least one function if the velocity is within afirst predetermined range of velocities. Optionally, the controller maybe further configured to operate a second function of the at least onefunction if the velocity is within a second predetermined range ofvelocities.

In a further alternative embodiment, the controller may be configured toselectively operate at least one function of the dispenser in accordancewith any suitable algorithm or determination process, provided that itis based on the measured position of the object relative to thedispenser.

In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 to 6, the controller may beconfigured to selectively operate at least one function of the dispenserbased only on the measured position of the object 100 relative to thedispenser.

In an alternative embodiment, the controller may be configured toselectively operate at least one function of the dispenser if thedirection of the velocity of the object is toward the dispenser.Furthermore, the controller may be configured to selectively operate atleast one function of the dispenser based on both the measured positionof the object relative to the dispenser and any other suitable factor.

By way of further example, in the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 and 2,the dispenser 10, 20 is a dispenser 10, 20 for dispensing either ahygiene product in the form of sheets or a liquid hygiene product.

In an alternative embodiment, the dispenser may be a dispenser fordispensing napkins in the form of rolls, feminine hygiene articles orany other hygiene product that is suitable for provision to a user by adispenser.

In a further example, in the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 to 6, thetime-of-flight sensor may be configured to operate at a single samplerate.

In the above embodiments, the time-of flight sensor operates at onesample rate. However, in an alternative embodiment, the time-of-flightsensor may be configured to operate at a first sample rate when themeasured position is in a first zone and at a second sample rate whenthe measured position is in a second zone, the first sample rate beinghigher than the second sample rate. The time-of-flight sensor may beconfigured to operate at a third sample rate when the measured positionis in a third zone, the second sample rate being higher than the thirdsample rate.

Alternatively, the selected sample rate may be based on the measuredposition of the object relative to the dispenser or any other suitablefactor.

In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 to 6, the controller is configuredto selectively operate a dispensing function or a display function.

In an alternative embodiment, the controller may be configured tooperate any suitable function or any suitable combination of functions.The function may be a power-up function, a communication function, asound function or a settings function.

Alternatively, the controller may be configured to operate a pluralityof dispensing functions based on the measured position of the objectrelative to the dispenser, with each dispensing function including thedispensing of a different amount of hygiene product.

In a further alternative embodiment, the controller may be configured tooperate a plurality of display functions based on the measured positionof the object relative to the dispenser, with each display functionincluding the display of a different piece of information.

By way of further example, in the embodiments shown in FIGS. 3a to 6,the controller is configured to selectively operate at least onefunction of the dispenser when the measured position of the object 100is in one of either two zones Z1, Z2 or three zones Z1, Z2, Z3.

In an alternative embodiment, the controller may be configured toselectively operate at least one function of the dispenser when themeasured position of the object is in one of four or more zones.

In light of this, there will be many alternatives that implement theteaching of the present disclosure. It is expected that one skilled inthe art will be able to modify and adapt the above disclosure to suitparticular circumstances and requirements within the scope of thepresent disclosure, while retaining some or all technical effects ofsame, either disclosed or derivable from the above, in light of thecommon general knowledge in this art. All such equivalents,modifications or adaptations fall within the scope of the invention asdefined by the appended claims.

The embodiments described above are only descriptions of preferredembodiments of the present invention, and do not intended to limit thescope of the present invention. Various variations and modifications canbe made to the technical solution of the present invention by those ofordinary skills in the art, without departing from the design and spiritof the present invention. The variations and modifications should allfall within the claimed scope defined by the claims of the presentinvention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A dispenser for dispensing a hygiene product,comprising: a time-of-flight sensor for measuring a position of anobject relative to the dispenser; and a controller configured toselectively operate at least one function of the dispenser based on themeasured position of the object relative to the dispenser.
 2. Thedispenser of claim 1, wherein the time-of-flight sensor is configured tooperate at a first sample rate when the measured position is in a firstzone and at a second sample rate when the measured position is in asecond zone, the first sample rate being higher than the second samplerate.
 3. The dispenser of claim 1, wherein the controller is configuredto operate a first function of the at least one function when themeasured position is in a first zone, and wherein the controller isconfigured to operate a second function of the at least one functionwhen the measured position is in a second zone.
 4. The dispenser ofclaim 3, wherein the first function is a dispensing function.
 5. Thedispenser of claim 3, wherein the second function is a power-up functionor a display function.
 6. The dispenser of claim 2, wherein the firstzone is closer to the dispenser than the second zone.
 7. The dispenserof claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to calculate a velocityof the object relative to the dispenser based on measured positions ofthe object, and wherein the controller is configured to operate a firstfunction of the at least one function if the velocity is within a firstpredetermined range of velocities.
 8. The dispenser of claim 7, whereinthe first function is a dispensing function which dispenses a firstamount of hygiene product.
 9. The dispenser of claim 8, wherein thecontroller is configured to operate a second function of the at leastone function if the velocity is within a second predetermined range ofvelocities, wherein the second function is a dispensing function whichdispenses a second amount of hygiene product.
 10. The dispenser of claim9, wherein a magnitude of at least some of the velocities of the firstpredetermined range is smaller than a magnitude of at least some of thevelocities of the second predetermined range, and wherein the firstamount is smaller than the second amount.
 11. The dispenser of claim 7,wherein the first function is a display function which displays a firstpiece of information.
 12. The dispenser of claim 11, wherein thecontroller is configured to operate a second function of the at leastone function if the velocity is within a second predetermined range ofvelocities, wherein the second function is a display function whichdisplays a second piece of information.
 13. The dispenser of claim 7,wherein the controller is configured to operate a function of thedispenser only if a direction of the velocity is towards the dispenser.14. The dispenser of claim 1, wherein one of the at least one functionis a communication function which communicates with an external entity.15. A method of operating at least one function of a dispenser fordispensing a hygiene product, the method comprising: measuring with atime-of-flight sensor a position of an object relative to the dispenser;and using a controller to selectively operate the at least one functionof the dispenser based on the measured position of the object relativeto the dispenser.
 16. The dispenser of claim 2, wherein the controlleris configured to operate a first function of the at least one functionwhen the measured position is in a first zone, and wherein thecontroller is configured to operate a second function of the at leastone function when the measured position is in a second zone, wherein thefirst function is a dispensing function, wherein the second function isa power-up function or a display function, and wherein the first zone iscloser to the dispenser than the second zone.
 17. The dispenser of claim16, wherein the controller is configured to calculate a velocity of theobject relative to the dispenser based on measured positions of theobject, and wherein the controller is configured to operate a firstfunction of the at least one function if the velocity is within a firstpredetermined range of velocities.